Carton and carton blank and a handle structure therefore

ABSTRACT

A carton ( 90 ) comprises a substantially tubular structure including a top wall ( 16 ) and first and second side walls ( 14, 18 ) hingedly connected respectively to opposed edges of the top wall. The carton comprises a handle structure (H 1 ) formed in the top wall ( 16 ) and in at least one of the first and second side walls ( 14, 18 ). The handle structure (H 1 ) includes a first handle flap hinged to the top wall ( 16 ) and to the at least one of the first and second side walls ( 14, 18 ) by a hinged connection ( 31 A). The first handle flap comprises a first main portion ( 30 A) formed from part of the top wall ( 16 ); and a first end portion ( 32 A/ 46 A) formed at least in part by a part of the at least one of the first and second side walls ( 14, 18 ).

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a carton and a blank for forming thecarton more specifically, but not exclusively, to a carton having ahandle structure for facilitating carrying of a package formed from thecarton and one or more articles contained by the carton.

BACKGROUND

In the field of packaging it is often required to provide consumers witha package comprising a plurality of primary product containers such ascans, bottles and the like, together in a carton. Such packages aredesirable for shipping and distribution, customer use, and display ofpromotional information. For cost and environmental considerations, thecartons or carriers used in such packages need to be formed from aslittle material as possible and cause as little wastage in the materialsfrom which they are formed as possible. Another consideration is thestrength of the package and its suitability for holding and transportinglarge weights of articles.

It is desirable to provide a carton having a handle structure forforming a carrying handle such that a user may deploy the handlestructure to carry the package. It is desirable that the carrying handleis both strong enough to withstand the load of the carton and itscontents. It is also desirable for the carrying handle to be simple andeasy for a user to deploy. It is also desirable for the carrying handleto be comfortable to use.

SUMMARY

The various embodiments of the present disclosure seek to overcome or atleast mitigate against the shortcomings of the prior art and/or providean improvement in the field of packaging.

According to a first aspect of the disclosure for which protection issought, there is provided a carton comprising: a top wall, a first sidewall hingedly connected to the top wall, and a handle structure formedin the top wall and in the first side wall. The handle structurecomprising a first handle flap hinged to the top wall and to the firstside wall by a first hinged connection. The first handle flap maycomprise a first end portion formed at least in part in the first sidewall and a first intermediate portion. The first handle flap may alsocomprise a first main portion formed from part of the top wall and beinghingedly connected to the first end portion by the first intermediateportion. The first handle flap may also comprise a first cutaway struckat least in part from the first handle flap and disposed adjacent to thefirst intermediate portion.

Optionally, the first end portion is formed in part in the top wall. Thefirst cutaway may be disposed adjacent to the first main portion. Insome embodiments, the first cutaway is disposed adjacent to the firstend portion.

The first cutaway may be struck at least in part from the top wall.Optionally, the first cutaway is struck at least in part from the firstside wall.

The first intermediate portion may be formed at least in part in the topwall. In some embodiments, the first intermediate portion may be formedin part in the first side wall.

In some embodiments, the carton further comprises a second side wallconnected to an opposite edge of the top wall and first handle flapcomprises a second end portion formed at least in part in the secondside wall. The first handle flap may comprise a second intermediateportion and the first main portion may be hingedly connected to thesecond end portion by the second intermediate portion. The handlestructure may further comprise a second cutaway struck at least in partfrom the first handle flap and disposed adjacent to the secondintermediate portion.

Optionally, a third cutaway that is struck, at least in part, from thefirst main portion and that couples the first cutaway to the secondcutaway.

In some embodiments, the first end portion is formed at least in part inthe top wall. The second end portion may be formed at least in part inthe top wall.

Optionally, the first cutaway extends from a free edge of the firsthandle flap toward the first hinged connection.

The carton may comprise at least one article disposed therein. The firstend portion may engage with a portion of a first end of the at least onearticle when the handle structure is deployed. The second end portionmay engage with a portion of a second end of the at least one articlewhen the handle structure is deployed.

In some embodiments, the handle structure includes a second handle flaphinged by a second hinged connection to the top wall and to the firstside wall in opposition to the first handle flap. The second handle flapmay comprise a third end portion formed at least in part in the firstside wall and a third intermediate portion. A second main portion formedfrom part of the top wall may be hingedly connected to the third endportion by the third intermediate portion. Additionally oralternatively, the second handle flap may comprise a fourth end portionformed at least in part in the second side wall, a fourth intermediateportion and the second main portion may be hingedly connected to thefourth end portion by the fourth intermediate portion. The handlestructure may further comprise a third cutaway struck at least in partfrom the second handle flap and disposed adjacent to the thirdintermediate portion and/or a fourth cutaway struck at least in partfrom the second handle flap and disposed adjacent to the fourthintermediate portion.

Optionally, the first and third cutaways form a first aperture definedin the top wall. Additionally or alternatively, the second and fourthcutaways may form a second aperture defined in the top wall.

Optionally, a slot is struck from the top wall and couples the firstaperture to the second aperture.

The top wall may further comprise a feature selected from the groupcomprising: a slot, a weakened line of separation, a frangible line anda cut line, which feature couples the first aperture to the secondaperture.

Optionally, the feature that couples the first aperture to the secondaperture extends into the first and/or second side walls and alongsidethe first and/or second end portions.

In some embodiments, the first handle flap is hinged to the top wall bya first curved fold line. Optionally, the first handle flap is hinged tothe top wall by a second curved fold line. The second curved fold linemay be curved in opposition to the first curved fold line. The first andsecond curved folds lines may be in touching contact at portions thereofand may diverge from each other at first ends thereof. Furtheroptionally, the first intermediate portion is defined, at least in partby a portion of the top wall disposed between the first and secondcurved fold lines.

In some embodiments, the first handle flap is hinged to the top wall bya first curved fold line and the first handle flap is hinged to the topwall by a second curved fold line. The second curved fold line may becurved in opposition to the first fold line. The first and second curvedfolds lines may be in touching contact at the centre and diverging fromeach other at each of the ends thereof. Optionally, the firstintermediate portion and the second intermediate portion are defined inpart between respective diverging ends of the first and second curvedfold lines.

Optionally, the first main portion comprises a fold line extendingthereacross, from the first hinged connection to an opposing edgethereof, so as to define in part a web panel disposed adjacent to thefirst intermediate portion.

Optionally, the first intermediate portion is triangular, three-sidedand/or trapezoidal in shape.

In some embodiments, a second intermediate portion and/or a thirdintermediate portion and/or a fourth intermediate portion may betriangular, three-sided and/or trapezoidal in shape.

In some embodiments, the carton comprises a plurality of walls forming atubular structure including a top wall, first side wall, second sidewall and a base wall.

According to another aspect of the disclosure for which protection issought, there is provided a handle structure for a carton. The handlestructure may be formed in a first wall and in a second wall hingedlyconnected thereto and may include a first handle flap hinged to thefirst wall and to the second wall by a hinged connection. The handleflap may comprise a main portion formed from a part of the first walland a first end portion formed at least in part from a part of thesecond wall. The main portion may be hingedly connected to the first endportion by an intermediate portion and a recess may be struck at leastin part from the first handle flap and disposed adjacent to the firstintermediate portion.

According to another aspect of the disclosure for which protection issought, there is provided a blank comprising a plurality of panels forforming a carton, the plurality of panels comprising: a top panel and afirst side panel. The blank comprises a handle structure formed in thetop panel and in the first side panel, the handle structure including ahandle flap hinged to the top panel and the first side panel by a firsthinged connection. The handle flap may comprise a first end portionformed at least in part from the first side panel; a first intermediateportion; and a first main portion formed from a part of the top paneland being hingedly connected to the first end portion by the firstintermediate portion. The handle structure may comprise a first cutawaystruck at least in part from the handle flap and disposed adjacent tothe first intermediate panel.

Optionally, the first cutaway extends from a free edge of the handleflap toward the first hinged connection.

According to yet another aspect of the disclosure for which protectionis sought, there is provided a carton comprising: a top wall, a firstside wall hingedly connected to the top wall, and a handle structureformed in the top wall and in the first side wall. The handle structurecomprising: a handle flap hinged to the top wall and to the first sidewall by a hinged connection. The handle flap may comprise a main portionformed from a part of the top wall; a first end portion formed at leastin part from a part of the first side wall; and an intermediate portionhingedly interconnecting the main portion to the first end portion. Themain portion may have a maximum height dimension (h2) defined betweenthe hinged connection and an opposing free end edge thereof. Theintermediate portion may have a height dimension (h1) defined betweenthe hinged connection and a free opposing end edge thereof. The heightdimension (h1) of the intermediate portion may be less than the maximumheight dimension (h2) of the main portion.

According to another further aspect of the disclosure for whichprotection is sought, there is provided a carton comprising: a top wall,a first side wall hingedly connected to the top wall, and a handlestructure formed in the top wall and in the first side wall. The handlestructure comprising a handle flap hinged to the top wall and to thefirst side wall by a hinged connection. The handle flap may comprise amain portion formed from a part of the top wall and a first end portionformed at least in part from the first side wall. Optionally anintermediate portion hingedly interconnects the main portion to thefirst end portion. The first end portion may be defined in part by afirst cut line orientated substantially perpendicular to a hinged linebetween the top wall and the first side wall. The first end portion maybe defined in part by a second cut line extending between the first cutline and the hinged connection between the first end portion and thefirst side wall, the second cut line comprising a substantially ‘C’shaped portion commencing at a point of intersection between the secondcut line and the hinged connection between the first end portion and thefirst side wall. Optionally, the first end portion has a maximum heightdimension (‘Y’) and the substantially ‘C’ shaped section of the firstcut line being disposed a linear dimension (‘X’) from the first cutline, wherein the height dimension (‘Y’) is greater that the lineardimension (‘X’).

Within the scope of this application it is intended that the variousaspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set out in thepreceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following descriptionand drawings may be taken independently or in any combination thereof.For example, features described in connection with one embodiment areapplicable to all embodiments unless there is incompatibility offeatures.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Various embodiments of the disclosure will now be described withreference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a cartonaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged plan view from above of the handle structure ofthe blank of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view from above of a carton formed from theblank of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view from above of the carton of FIG. 3 showingthe handle structure in a deployed condition;

FIG. 5 is a cutaway perspective view from above of the carton of FIG. 3showing the handle structure in a deployed condition;

FIG. 6 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a cartonaccording to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged plan view from above of the handle structure ofthe blank of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view from above of a carton formed from theblank of FIG. 6;

FIG. 9 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a cartonaccording to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 is an enlarged plan view from above of the handle structure ofthe blank of FIG. 9; and

FIG. 11 is a perspective view from above of a carton formed from theblank of FIG. 9; and

FIG. 12 is a plan view from above of a portion of a blank including ahandle structure according to a further embodiment of the presentdisclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the packages, blanks,cartons and handle structures therefor are disclosed herein. It will beunderstood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the wayin which certain aspects of the disclosure can be implemented and do notrepresent an exhaustive list of all of the ways the disclosure may beembodied. As used herein, the word “exemplary” is used expansively torefer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, orpatterns. Indeed, it will be understood that the packages, blanks,cartons and handle structures therefor described herein may be embodiedin various and alternative forms. The Figures are not necessarily toscale and some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show detailsof particular components. Well-known components, materials or methodsare not necessarily described in great detail in order to avoidobscuring the present disclosure. Any specific structural and functionaldetails disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, butmerely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis forteaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the disclosure.

FIG. 1 shows a plan view of a blank 10 capable of forming a carton 90,as shown in FIG. 3. The carton 90 is used for containing a group (one ormore) of primary product containers such as, but not limited to, cans,pouches, brick packs and bottles, hereinafter referred to as articles C.

In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms “carton” and “carrier”refer, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating the various featuresof the invention, to a container for engaging, carrying, and/ordispensing articles, such as product containers. It is contemplated thatthe teachings of the disclosure can be applied to various primaryproduct containers, which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical.Exemplary containers include bottles (for example metallic, glass orplastics bottles), cans (for example aluminium cans), sprayers or fluiddispensers such as a perfume bottle, tins, pouches, packets, and thelike. It will be appreciated that the carton 90 may be employed, in someapplications, to package primary products such as an alcoholic ornon-alcoholic beverage held within primary product containers. In otherembodiments the primary products are, for example, but withoutlimitation, electrical goods that may be packaged directly within thecarton 90.

The blanks shown and described herein are formed from a sheet ofsuitable substrate. It is to be understood that, as used herein, theterm “suitable substrate” includes all manner of foldable sheet materialsuch as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinationsthereof, and the like. It should be recognized that one or other numbersof blanks may be employed, where suitable, for example, to provide thecarton described in more detail below.

In various embodiments, the blanks are configured to form a carton orcarrier for packaging an illustrative arrangement of optional articles.In the illustrated embodiments the arrangement is a 2×6 matrix or arrayof twelve articles C. In other embodiments other arrangements may beemployed. The blank can be alternatively configured to form a carton forpackaging other types, number and size of article and/or for packagingarticles in a different arrangement or configuration.

Referring again to FIG. 1, the blank 10 comprises a plurality of mainpanels 12, 14, 16, 18 and a securing panel 20 hinged together in alinear series. More specifically, the blank 10 comprises a base panel 12hinged to a first side panel 14 by a hinged connection such as a foldline 13. The base panel 12 forms a base wall of the carton 90 and thefirst side panel 14 forms a first side wall of the carton 90. The firstside panel 14 is hinged to a top panel 16 by a hinged connection such asa fold line 15. The top panel 16 forms a top wall of the carton 90. Thetop panel 16 is hinged to a second side panel 18 by a hinged connectionsuch as a fold line 17. The second side panel 18 forms a second sidewall of the carton 90. The second side panel 18 is hinged to thesecuring panel 20 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 19.

The plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18 and securing panel 20 forman open ended tubular structure (not shown) when in a partially set upcondition. Each of the ends of the tubular structure is at leastpartially closed by end closure panels 22A, 24A, 26A, 28A; 22B, 24B,26B, 28B. End closure panels 22A, 24A, 26A, 28A are configured to closea first end of the tubular structure and end panels 22B, 24B, 26B, 28Bare configured to close a second end of the tubular structure.

A first end closure panel 22A is hinged to a first end of base panel 12by a hinged connection such as a fold line 21A. A second end closurepanel 24A is hinged to a first end of first side panel 14 by a hingedconnection such as a fold line 23A. A third end closure panel 26A ishinged to a first end of top panel 16 by a hinged connection such as afold line 25A. A fourth end closure panel 28A is hinged to a first endof the second side panel 18 by a hinged connection such as a fold line27A.

A fifth end closure panel 22B is hinged to a second end of base panel 12by a hinged connection such as a fold line 21B. A sixth end closurepanel 24B is hinged to a second end of the first side panel 14 by ahinged connection such as a fold line 23B. A seventh end closure panel26B is hinged to a second end of top panel 16 by a hinged connectionsuch as a fold line 25B. An eighth end closure panel 28B is hinged to asecond end of second side panel 18 by a hinged connection such as a foldline 27B.

The first end closure panel 22A and the fifth end closure panel 22B eachform a minor lower end closure panel at opposing ends of the tubularstructure. The third end closure panel 26A and the seventh end closurepanel 26B each form a minor upper end closure panel at opposing ends ofthe tubular structure.

The second end closure panel 24A and the fourth end closure panel 28Aeach form a major side end closure panel at the first end of the tubularstructure. The sixth end closure panel 24B and the eighth end closurepanel 28B each form a major side end closure panel at the second end ofthe tubular structure.

The blank 10 comprises a handle structure H1 formed in part in the toppanel 16 and in part in the first and second side panels 14, 18. Anenlarged view of the handle structure H1 is shown in FIG. 2 along withparts of the top panel 16 and the first and second side panels 14, 18.It can be seen from FIG. 2 that the handle structure H1 of the presentlyillustrated embodiment comprises a first handle flap including a mainportion 30A; a first end portion 32A/46A; a second end portion 34A/48A;a first intermediate portion 36A; and a second intermediate portion 38A.

The main portion 30A is defined within the top panel 16. The mainportion 30A provides a comfort flap which a user may engage or pressagainst when using the handle structure H1 as a carrying handle forcarrying the carton 90. The first intermediate portion 36A and thesecond intermediate portion 38A are also each defined within the toppanel 16.

A first part 32A of the first end portion 32A/46A is defined in thefirst side panel 14 and a second part 46A of the first end portion32A/46A is defined in the top panel 16. As can be seen in FIG. 2, thefirst part 32A and the second part 46A of the first end portion 32A/46Aare separated by part of fold line 15 between the top panel 16 and thefirst side panel 14.

A first part 34A of the second end portion 34A/48A is defined in thesecond side panel 18 and a second part 48A of the second end portion34A/48A is defined in the top panel 16.

The first part 34A and second part 48A of the second end portion 34A/48Aare separated by part of fold line 17 between the top panel 16 and thesecond side panel 18.

The handle structure H1 comprises a cutaway in the form of an apertureA1. The aperture A1 is struck from the top panel 16. The aperture A1defines in part the first and second end portions 32A/46A, 34A/48A, thefirst intermediate portion 36A, the second intermediate portion 38A andmain portion 30A.

The aperture A1 defines a first recess which separates the main portion30A from the first end portion 32A/46A, and defines a second recesswhich separates the main portion 30A from the second end portion34A/48A.

Providing the cutaway adjacent to the first and second intermediateportions 36A, 38A has the effect of reducing the height h1 of the firstand second intermediate portions 36A, 38A. In the absence of theaperture A1 it would be necessary for the first and third cut lines 44A,44B to extends across the top panel 16 so as to be continuous and forthe intermediate portions first and second intermediate portions 36A,38A to extend fully across the handle flap to separate the main portion30A from the respective first and second end portions 32A/46A, 34A/48A.

The cutaway may also be formed adjacent to the main portion 30A and/orthe first and second end portions 32A/46A, 34A/48A.

The main portion 30A is separated or spaced apart from the first endportion 32A/46A by the first intermediate portion 36A and by a recessdefined by a first part of the aperture A1. The main portion 30A isseparated or spaced apart from the second end portion 34A/48A by thesecond intermediate portion 38A and by a recess defined by a second partof the aperture A1.

The height dimension h1 of the first and second intermediate portions36A, 38A is smaller than a height dimension h2 of the main portion 30A.

The first recess comprises a curved portion defining a maximum depthinto the first handle flap to which the recess extends. The apex of thefirst intermediate portion 36A is in touching contact with the firstrecess, substantially at the point that the curved portion reaches itsmaximum depth.

In some embodiments the curved portions of the recesses may have aradius of curvature of about 0.155″ (or about 3.9 mm). It has been foundthat if the curved portion of the recess comprises a larger radius ofcurvature dimension then the handle strength and/or durability isimproved; tear are less likely to propagate from the recess. If theradius of curvature is increased too much however this may lead toremoval of too significant a portion of the main portion 30A (whichprovides a comfort flap for the user). This may have an effect upon thecomfortableness of the handle perceived by the user. Therefore there isa balance to be struck between the strength of the handle and thecomfort of the handle in use. The value of 0.155″ for radius ofcurvature of the curved portions of the recesses has been found tosatisfy both requirements. It will be appreciated that in otherembodiments different values for radius of curvature of the curvedportions may be acceptable.

The first handle flap is hinged to the top panel 16 by a first hingedconnection such as a first curved fold line 31A and by a second hingedconnection such as a second curved fold line 33A. The first curved foldline 31A is curved in opposition to the second curved fold line 33A. Thecentre of first curved fold line 31A is in touching contact, overlapswith, or is otherwise in registry, with the centre of second curved foldline 33A. End portions of the first curved fold line 31A diverge awayfrom respective end portions of the second curved fold line 33A.

The curved nature of the first fold line 31A, which in some embodimentsmay be formed by a fold line which is periodically interrupted by cutlines, may serve to maintain the first handle flap, in particular themain portion 30A thereof, in a folded condition and acts against theinherent, natural resilience of the sheet material from which the carton90 is formed. The inherent, natural resilience of the sheet materialtends to urge or cause the sheet material to unfold, but the provisionof a curved or arcuate first fold line 31A mitigates against this.

In alternative embodiments either or both of the first fold line 31A andthe second fold line 33A are non-linear. The first fold line 31A and/orthe second fold line 33A may be formed from two or more linear sectionsarranged divergently with respect to each other.

The first intermediate portion 36A is defined in part by a first endportion of the first curved fold line 31A and in part by a first endportion of the second curved fold line 33A. Similarly, the secondintermediate portion 38A is defined in part by a second end portion ofthe first curved fold line 31A and in part by a second end portion ofthe second curved fold line 33A.

The first intermediate portion 36A interconnects the main portion 30A tothe first end portion 32A/46A. The first intermediate portion 36A ishinged to the main portion 30A by a first end portion of second curvedfold line 33A. The first intermediate portion 36A is hinged to the firstend portion 32A/46A by a hinged connection such as a fold line 39A. Foldline 39A extends between a first end of the first curved fold line 31Aand a first end of the second curved fold line 33A. Fold line 39A isalso curved; in other embodiments fold line 39A may be linear.

The second intermediate portion 38A interconnects the main portion 30Ato the second end portion 34A/48A. The second intermediate portion 38Ais hinged to the main portion 30A by a second end portion of secondcurved fold line 33A. The second intermediate portion 38A is hinged tothe second end portion 34A/48A by a hinged connection such as a foldline 41A. Fold line 41A extends between a second end of the first curvedfold line 31A and a second end of the second curved fold line 33A. Foldline 41A is also curved; in other embodiments fold line 41A may belinear.

The first part 32A of the first end portion 32A/46A is hinged to thefirst side panel 14 by a fold line 35A. Fold line 35A is contiguous withfirst curved fold line 31A and intersects the fold line 15 (betweenfirst side panel 14 and top panel 16) at the point the first curved foldline 31A intersects the fold line 17.

The first part 32A of the first end portion 32A/46A is further definedin part by a first cutline 44A. The second part 46A of the first endportion 32A/46A is also defined in part by the first cutline 44A. Thefirst cut line 44A is orientated substantially perpendicularly to thefold line 15 and extends from the aperture A1 into the first side panel14. A second cutline 40A extends from a terminal end of the firstcutline 44A disposed in the first side panel 14 towards the fold line35A. The first cut line 44A defines a free end edge of the first endportion 32A/46A.

The second cutline 40A comprises a “C” or “J” shaped section C1 at a oneend thereof. The “C” or “J” shaped section C1 of the second cutline 40Ais disposed proximate the fold line 35A. The “C” or “J” shaped sectionC1 of the second cutline 40A is arranged to be maximum linear dimension“X” from the first cutline 44A. The fold line 35A is arranged to bemaximum linear dimension “Y” from the first cutline 44A. Optionally, thelinear dimension “X” may be less than or equal to the linear dimension“Y” as shown in FIG. 2.

In this way the “C” or “J” shaped section C1 of the second cutline 40Ais disposed between a first notional line defining a first edge of thefirst end portion 32A/46A and a second notional line defining a second,opposing, edge of the first end portion 32A/46A. The “C” or “J” shapedsection C1 can be considered to be disposed within the width of the footprint of the first handle flap. That is to say the “C” or “J” shapedsection C1 does not extend beyond the first handle flap in alongitudinal direction of the carton; the longitudinal direction beingdefined by the tubular axis of the carton.

The first part 34A of the second end portion 34A/48A is hinged to thesecond side panel 18 by a fold line 37A. Fold line 37A is contiguouswith first curved fold line 31A and intersects the fold line 17 (betweenthe top panel 16 and second side panel 18) at the point that the firstcurved fold line 31A intersects the fold line 17.

The first part 34A of the second end portion 34A/48A is defined in partby a third cutline 44B. The second part 48A of the second end portion34A/48A is defined in part by the third cutline 44B. The third cut line44B is orientated substantially perpendicularly to the fold line 17 andextends from the aperture A1 into the second side panel 18. A fourthcutline 42A extends from a terminal end of the third cutline 44Bdisposed in the second side panel 18, towards the fold line 37A. Thethird cut line 44B defines a free end edge of the second end portion34A/48A.

The fourth cutline 42A comprises a “C” or “J” shaped section C3 at a oneend thereof. The “C” or “J” shaped section C3 of the fourth cutline 42Ais disposed proximate the fold line 37A. The “C” or “J” shaped sectionC3 of the fourth cutline 42A is arranged to be maximum linear dimension“X” from the third cutline 44B. The fold line 37A is arranged to bemaximum linear dimension “Y” from the third cutline 44B. The lineardimension “X” is less than the linear dimension “Y”.

The handle structure H1 comprises a second handle flap including mainportion 30B; a third end portion 32B/46B; a fourth end portion 34B/48B;a third intermediate portion 36B; and a fourth intermediate portion 38B.

The second handle flap is substantially the same in construction as thefirst handle flap albeit a mirror image thereof and only the differenceswill be described in greater detail. The second handle flap is hinged tothe top panel 16 by a first curved fold line 31B and by a second curvedfold line 33B. The second handle flap is hinged in opposition to thefirst handle flap.

The aperture A1 defines in part the third and fourth end portions32B/46B, 34B/48B, the third intermediate portion 36B and the fourthintermediate portion 38B and the main portion 30B. The aperture A1 issubstantially “dumbbell” shaped, that is to say it comprises a slotportion 50B at each end of which is a bulbous portion 50A, 50C, which inthe illustrated embodiment is substantially conical.

By coupling the bulbous portions 50A, 50C to one another by the slotportion 50B the removal of the portion of sheet material defined by theaperture A1 is simplified. It may also serve as a visual cue for a userto guide them where to engage with the handle structure.

In other embodiments slot portion 50B may be formed as a weakened lineof separation, cut line, perforate line or other frangible line that maybe broken when the carrying handle H1 is deployed.

In some embodiments the slot portion 50B may be contiguous with thefirst cutline 44A and/or the third cutline 44B such that the slotportion 50B may be considered as extending into the first and/or secondside walls 14, 18 and alongside the first and/or second end portions32A/46A, 34A/48A.

The third end portion 32B/46B is defined in part by the first cutline44A and in part by a fifth cutline 40B. Together the first cutline 44A,the second cutline 40A and the fifth cutline 40B define a substantially“T” shaped cut line 40 terminated at each end of the cross member of the“T” by a “C” shaped section C1, C2.

The fourth end portion 34B/48B is defined in part by the third cutline44B and in part by a sixth cutline 42B. Together the third cutline 44B,the fourth cutline 42A and the sixth cutline 42B define a substantially“T” shaped cut line 42 terminated at each end of the cross member of the“T” by a “C” shaped section C3, C4.

The carton 90 can be formed by a series of sequential folding operationsin a straight line machine so that the carton 90 may not be required tobe rotated or inverted to complete its construction. The folding processis not limited to that described below and may be altered according toparticular manufacturing requirements. During loading and assembly ofthe carton 90, the carton 90 may be orientated such that the first sidepanel 14 forms a loading surface. The bases of one or more articles Cmay be in sliding contact with the loading surface when being insertedinto the carton 90. The articles C may be substantially cylindrical inshape and have a cylindrical axis. The cylindrical axis is orientatedperpendicularly to the first side panel 14 and may also be orientatedsubstantially vertically. The main panel 16 forms the top panel (topwall) 16 when the handle structure H1 is in use as a carrying handle bya user and this top wall 16 is optionally, disposed adjacent to thesides of the articles C. In this orientation the top wall 16 is notdisposed substantially planar to the tops or bottoms of the articles Cheld within the carton 90 In other words the cylindrical axis of thearticles C is substantially parallel with the plane of the top wall 16of the carton 90 in which the main portion 30A, 30B is formed. The mainpanel 12 forms the base panel 12 when the handle structure is in use asa carrying handle by a user. The main panel 12 may also form the basepanel 12 when the articles C are being dispensed from the carton 90 orwhen the carton 90 is at rest upon a surface such as a shelf. As such,it will be understood that descriptive terms “top”, “base”, and “side”do not necessarily limit the carton 90 to adopting a particularorientation but serve to distinguish those panels from one another,albeit the main portion 30A, 30B of the carrying handle H1 is formed ina wall or panel of the carton is substantially parallel with thecylindrical axis of the articles C. In other embodiments the cylindricalaxis of the articles C may be orientated differently with respect to thetop wall 16 of the carton 90. For example, but not limited to, thecylindrical axis of the articles C be may orientated substantiallyperpendicularly to the plane of the top wall 16 of the carton 90.

Turning to the construction of the carton 90 as illustrated in FIG. 3,the blank 10 is folded about the fold line 17 such that the second sidepanel 18 is disposed in overlying relationship with the top panel 16 andsuch that the securing panel 20 is disposed in face contactingrelationship with the first side panel 14.

Glue G or other adhesive treatment is applied to an outer surface of thesecuring panel 20. Alternatively, glue G or other adhesive treatment maybe applied to a corresponding edge portion of an inner surface of thebase panel 12.

The blank 10 is folded about the fold line 13 such that the base panel12 is disposed in overlying relationship with the securing panel 20 andpart of the first side panel 14. The base panel 12 is thereby secured tothe securing panel 20.

The blank 10 is thus formed into a flat collapsed tubular structurewhich can be readily shipped or distributed to a convertor plant, atwhich the flat collapsed tubular structure may be erected into an openended tubular structure and loaded with articles C.

The flat collapsed tubular structure may be erected to form an openended tubular structure by unfolding the first side panel 14 withrespect to the base panel 12 such that the first side panel 14 isdisposed substantially perpendicularly with respect to the base panel12.

The carton 90, in its open ended tubular form, may be loaded witharticles C through one or both open ends thereof. It will be appreciatedthat in some embodiments one of the open ends of the carton 90 may beclosed before loading the interior with articles C through the remainingopen end.

Once the carton 90 has been loaded with articles C the open ends of thecarton 90 are closed.

The method for closing each of the open ends of the carton 90 issubstantially the same and will be described by reference to closing thefirst open end.

A first end of the tubular structure is closed by folding the first endclosure panel 22A about fold line 21A and by folding the third endclosure panel 26A about fold line 25A.

Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to a first portion of aninner surface of the second end closure panel 24A. In alternativeembodiments glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to acorresponding portion of an outer surface of first end closure panel22A.

Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to a second portion ofan inner surface of the second end closure panel 24A. In alternativeembodiments glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to acorresponding portion of an outer surface of third end closure panel26A.

The second end closure panel 24A is then folded about the fold line 23Ato be brought into contact with the first and third end closure panels22A, 26A. The second end closure panel 24A may be secured to each of thefirst and third end closure panels 22A, 26A.

Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to a portion of an innersurface of the fourth end closure panel 28A. In alternative embodimentsglue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to a portion of an outersurface of the second end closure panel 24A.

The fourth end closure panel 28A is then folded about the fold line 27Ato be brought into contact with the second end closure panel 24A andoptionally into contact with the first and third end closure panels 22A,26A.

The fourth end closure panel 28A is secured to the second end closurepanel 24A. The fourth end closure panel 28A may be secured to the firstand third end closure panels 22A, 26A for example by glue or otheradhesive treatment.

In alternative embodiments the second end closure panel 24A may befolded about fold line 23A after folding the fourth end closure panel28A about fold line 27A. It will be appreciated that in such embodimentsthe second end closure panel 24A is disposed outermost.

In other embodiments alternative securing means may be employed tosecure the end closure panels 22A, 24A, 26A; 28B, 22B, 24B, 26B, 28B,for example but not limited to mechanical locking devices such asstaples or punch locks integrally formed within the end closure panels22A, 24A, 26A, 28A; 22B, 24B, 26B, 28B.

The process described above in relation to the first end is replicatedto close the second end of the carton 90 and is not further described.

A completed carton 90 is shown in FIG. 3. FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate thehandle structure H1, in a deployed condition, being used as a carryinghandle for the carton 90. The carton 90 comprises an interior volumedefined by the main panels 12, 14, 16, 18 and securing panel 20 formingthe tubular structure and the end closure panels 22A, 24A, 26A, 28A;22B, 24B, 26B, 28B. The interior volume is loaded with articles C. Thearticles C are arranged in rows. The handle structure H1 is located inthe top panel 16 so as to be in registry with a space or void definedbetween two adjacent articles C. In the illustrated embodiment thehandle structure H1 is located centrally in the top panel 16, such thatit is disposed above the void between the central pair of articles C. Inother embodiments where the handle structure H1 is applied to adifferent size or type of carton, the handle structure H1 is not locatedcentrally. In some such applications, more than one handle structure H1is provided.

The handle structure H1 is configured for one-handed use. So that thecarton 90 can be easily picked up without a user having to correctlyorientate the carton 90 the overall handle structure H1 effectivelycomprises two carrying structures that are mirror images of one another.How the handle structure H1 may be used is described and illustratedpredominantly with respect to one side only, it being understood that auser could lift the carton 90 from the other side and the handlestructure H1 would be deployed in the same manner.

To deploy the carrying handle H1, a user inserts one or more fingersinto the carton 90 folding the main portion 30A internally of the carton90. The main portion 30A is folded about fold line 31A by approximately180 degrees.

The top panel of the carton 90 and the main portion 30A are deformed soas to be convex when viewed from an external vantage point. The firstand second intermediate portions 36A, 38A are folded substantially about90 degrees. This has the effect of pulling or folding the first endportion 32A/46A and the second end portion 34A/48A inwardly about thefold lines 35A, 37A respectively.

The first end portion 32A/46A and the second end portion 34A/48A eachprovide a gripping or engaging member. The first end portion 32A/46A andthe second end portion 34A/48A each grip, press against and otherwisecontact a respective end of the article C disposed adjacent thereto.

When the handle structure H1 is engaged by a user to lift the carton 90as shown by direction arrow D in FIGS. 4 and 5, the load of the carton90 is borne at least in part by the article C which acts as a bracebetween the first and second end portions 32A/46A, 34A/48A.

The “C” shaped cut lines C1, C2 (C3, C4) serve to redirect load forcesinto the first and second side walls 14, 18 of the carton 90 so as toincrease the strength and durability of the handle structure H1 and tomitigate against a tear propagating into the first and second side walls14, 18.

It is believed that providing the recesses in the first handle flapbetween the main portion 30A and each of the first and second endportions 32A/46A, 34A/48A respectively, so as to reduce the height h1 ofthe respective one of the first and second intermediate portions 36A,38A, increases the handle strength when compared to a handle structurein which the recesses are omitted.

In some embodiments the height h1 of the first and second intermediateportions 36A, 38A is selected to be about 0.187″ (or about 4.7 mm). Thishas been found to provide a strong handle which is comfortable to useand in which first and second intermediate portions 36A, 38A aresufficiently dimensioned to enable the first and second intermediateportions 36A, 38A to pull on the first and second end portions 32A/46A,34A/48A so as to transfer a tensile load or force into the first andsecond end portions 32A/46A, 34A/48A such that they engage with the endsof the article C.

It is believed that providing the top wall 16 of the carton 90 withaperture A1 provides a handle structure H1 which is intuitive to deployfor the end user. The user will understand that folding the main portion30A will allow them to readily carry the carton 90.

Referring now to FIGS. 6 to 12, there are shown additional embodimentsof the present disclosure. In the second, third and fourth illustratedembodiments, additional like numerals have, where possible, been used todenote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “100”, “200”or “300” to indicate that these features belong to the second, third andfourth embodiments respectively. The additional embodiments share manycommon features with the first embodiment and therefore only thedifferences from the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 5 will bedescribed in detail.

FIG. 6 illustrates a blank 110 for forming a carton 190, as shown inFIG. 8, according to a second illustrated embodiment.

The blank 110 comprises a plurality of main panels 112, 114, 116, 118,120 hinged together in a linear series. The plurality of main panels112, 114, 116, 118, 120 form a tubular structure 190 in a setupcondition.

Similarly to the blank 10 of the first embodiment, the blank 110comprises a base panel 112 hinged to a first side panel 114 by a hingedconnection such as a fold line 113. The first side panel 114 is hingedto a top panel 116 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 115. Thetop panel 116 is hinged to a second side panel 118 by a hingedconnection such as a fold line 117. The second side panel 118 is hingedto a securing panel 120 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 119.Again a series of end closure panels 122A, 124A, 126A, 128A; 122B, 124B,126B, 128B are provided for fully closing each end of the carton 190.

The blank 110 comprises a handle structure H2; FIG. 7 illustrates anenlarged view of the handle structure H2.

Blank 110 is configured for forming a fully enclosed carton 190 of theend loading type. The handle structure H2 is not limited in itsapplication to such a carton 190 or carrier. It will be understood thatone or more handle structures H2 may be applied to a carton or carrierand that the carton or carrier may be tubular, fully enclosed, partiallyenclosed, of the wraparound type and/or of the top gripping type.

The handle structure H2 comprises a first aperture A1 and a secondaperture A2. The first aperture A1 is struck in part from the top panel116 and in part from the first side panel 114. The second aperture A2 isstruck in part from the top panel 116 and in part from the second sidepanel 118. A first cutline or weakened line of severance 144 extendsacross the top panel 116 between the first aperture A1 and the secondaperture A2.

The handle structure H2 comprises a first handle flap disposed on afirst side of the first weakened line of severance 144. The first handleflap is hinged to the top panel 116 by a hinged connection such as afold line 131A, to the first side panel 114 by a hinged connection suchas a fold line 135A; and to the second side panel 118 by a hingedconnection such as a fold line 137A.

The first handle flap comprises a main portion 130A; a first end portion132A/146A a second end portion 134A/148A; a first intermediate portion136A; and a second intermediate portion 138A.

The first intermediate portion 136A interconnects the main portion 130Ato the first end portion 132A/146A. The first intermediate portion 136Ais hinged to the main portion 130A by a hinged connection such as a foldline 151A. The first intermediate portion 136A is hinged to the firstend portion 132A/146A by a hinged connection such as a fold line 139A.Fold line 139A extends between a first end of the fold line 151A and afirst end of the first curved fold line 131A.

The second intermediate portion 138A interconnects the main portion 130Ato the second end portion 134A/148A. The second intermediate portion138A is hinged to the main portion 130A by a hinged connection such as afold line 153A. The second intermediate portion 138A is hinged to thesecond end portion 134A/148A by a hinged connection such as a fold line141A. Fold line 141A extends between a second end of the first curvedfold line 131A and a second end of the fold line 153A.

The first intermediate portion 136A and the second intermediate portion138A are each substantially triangular in shape, albeit with a roundedcorner and a slightly curved side (defined by fold line 139A).

The main portion 130A may comprise a first optional hinged connectionsuch as a fold line 155A. Fold line 155A extends from the first weakenedline of severance 144 to first curved fold line 131A. The fold line 155Adefines an optional web panel 152A defined within the main portion 130A.The web panel 152A interconnects the first intermediate portion 136A toa central part of the main portion 130A.

The main portion 130A may comprise a second optional hinged connectionsuch as a second optional fold line 157A. Fold line 157A extends fromthe first weakened line of severance 144 to first curved fold line 131A.The fold line 157A defines a second optional web panel 154A definedwithin the main portion 130A. The web panel 154A interconnects thesecond intermediate portion 138A to a central part of the main portion130A.

The handle structure H2 comprises a second, optional, handle flapdisposed on a second side of the first weakened line of severance 144.The second handle flap is hinged, in opposition to the first handleflap, to the top panel 116 by a hinged connection such as a curved foldline 131B; to the first side panel 114 by a hinged connection such as afold line 135B; and to the second side panel 118 by a hinged connectionsuch as a fold line 137B.

The second handle flap comprises a main portion 130B; a first endportion 132B/146B; a second end portion 134B/148B; a first intermediateportion 136B; and a second intermediate portion 138B.

The main portion 130A of the first handle flap is separable from themain portion 130B of the second handle flap by severing the firstweakened line of severance 144.

The first end portion 132B/146B and the second end portion 134B/148B areeach defined in part by a respective one of a second and third cutlineor weakened line of severance 144A, 144B. The first weakened line ofseverance 144 is collinear with the second and third weakened lines ofseverance 144A, 144B such that the first weakened line of severance 144may be considered as extending into the first and/or second side walls114, 118 and alongside the first and/or second end portions 132A/146A,134A/148A. In alternative embodiments the first weakened line ofseverance 144, second weakened line of severance 144A and third weakenedline of severance 144B may each take the form of a slot or othercutaway.

The handle structure H2 is configured for one-handed use. So that thecarton 190 as shown in FIG. 8 can be easily picked up without a userhaving to correctly orientate the carton 190 the overall handlestructure H1 effectively comprises two carrying structures that aremirror images of one another.

FIG. 9 illustrates a blank 210 for forming a carton 290, as shown inFIG. 11, according to a third illustrated embodiment.

The blank 210 comprises a plurality of main panels 212, 214, 216, 218,220 hinged together in a linear series. The plurality of main panels212, 214, 216, 218, 220 form a tubular structure in a setup condition.

The blank 210 comprises a base panel 212 hinged to a first side panel214 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 213. The first side panel214 is hinged to a top panel 216 by a hinged connection such as a foldline 215. The top panel 216 is hinged to a second side panel 218 by ahinged connection such as a fold line 217. The second side panel 218 ishinged to a securing panel 220 a hinged connection such as a fold line219.

The blank 210 comprises a handle structure H3; FIG. 10 illustrates anenlarged view of the handle structure H3.

The handle structure H3 comprises a first aperture A1 and a secondaperture A2. The first aperture A1 is struck from the top panel 216. Thesecond aperture A2 is struck from the top panel 216. A cutline orweakened line of severance 244 extends across the top panel 216 betweenthe first aperture A1 and the second aperture A2.

The handle structure H3 comprises a first handle flap disposed on afirst side of the weakened line of severance 244. The first handle flapis hinged to the top panel 216 by a first curved hinged connection suchas a first curved fold line 231A; to the first side panel 214 by ahinged connection such as a fold line 235A; and to the second side panel218 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 237A.

The first handle flap comprises a main portion 230A; a first end portion232A/246A; a second end portion 234A/248A; a first intermediate portion236A; and a second intermediate portion 238A.

The first intermediate portion 236A interconnects the main portion 230Ato the first end portion 232A/246A. The first intermediate portion 236Ais hinged to the main portion 230A by a hinged connection such as astraight fold line 251A. The first intermediate portion 236A is hingedto the first end portion 232A/246A by a hinged connection such as astraight fold line 239A. Fold line 239A extends between an edge of firstaperture A1 and a first end of the fold line 231A.

The second intermediate portion 238A interconnects the main portion 230Ato the second end portion 234A/248A. The second intermediate portion238A is hinged to the main portion 230A by a hinged connection such as afold line 253A. The second intermediate portion 238A is hinged to thesecond end portion 234A/248A by a hinged connection such as a fold line241A. Fold line 241A extends between a second end of the first curvedfold line 231A and an edge of second aperture A2.

The first intermediate portion 236A and the second intermediate portion238A are each substantially trapezoidal in shape.

The first aperture A1 has the effect of reducing the maximum heightdimension of the first intermediate portion 236A to be less than themaximum height dimension of the main portion 230A and of the first endportion 232A/246A.

The second aperture A2 has the effect of reducing the maximum heightdimension of the second intermediate portion 238A to be less than themaximum height dimension of the main portion 230A and of the second endportion 234A/248A.

The “C” shaped section of the “T” shaped cut lines 240, 242 have beenomitted in the third illustrated embodiment.

The handle structure H3 comprises a second, optional, handle flapdisposed on a second side of the weakened line of severance 244. Thesecond handle flap is hinged, in opposition to the first handle flap, tothe top panel 216 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 231B; tothe first side panel 214 by a hinged connection such as a fold line235B; and to the second side panel 218 by a hinged connection such as afold line 237B.

The second handle flap comprises a main portion 230B, a first endportion 232B/246B; a second end portion 234B/248B; a first intermediateportion 236B and a second intermediate portion 238B.

The main portion 230A of the first handle flap is separable from themain portion 230B of the second handle flap by severing the weakenedline of severance 244.

The handle structure H3 is configured for one-handed use. So that thecarton 290 as shown in FIG. 11 can be easily picked up without a userhaving to correctly orientate the carton 290 the overall handlestructure H3 effectively comprises two carrying structures that aremirror images of one another.

FIG. 12 illustrates a portion of a blank 310 for forming a carton (notshown) according to a fourth illustrated embodiment.

The blank 310 comprises a plurality of main panels 314, 316, 318 hingedtogether in a linear series. The plurality of main panels 314, 316, 318form a part of a tubular structure of a carton in a setup condition.

The blank 310 comprises a first side panel 314 is hinged to a top panel316 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 315. The top panel 316 ishinged to a second side panel 318 by a hinged connection such as a foldline 317.

The blank 310 comprises a handle structure H4. The handle structure H4comprises a first aperture A1 and a second aperture A2. The firstaperture A1 is struck from the top panel 316. The second aperture A2 isstruck from the top panel 316. A cutline or weakened line of severance344 extends across the top panel 316 between the first aperture A1 andthe second aperture A2.

The handle structure H3 comprises a first handle flap disposed on afirst side of the weakened line of severance 344. The first handle flapis hinged to the top panel 316 by a curved hinged connection such as afirst curved fold line 331A; to the first side panel 314 by a hingedconnection such as a fold line 335A; and to the second side panel 318 bya hinged connection such as a fold line 337A. The fold line 331A extendsinto the first side panel 314.

The fold line 331A extends into the second side panel 314.

The first handle flap comprises a main portion 330A; a first end portion332A/346A; a second end portion 334A/348A; a first intermediate portion336A; and a second intermediate portion 338A.

The first intermediate portion 336A interconnects the main portion 330Ato the first end portion 332A/346A. The first intermediate portion 336Ais hinged to the main portion 330A by a hinged connection such as astraight fold line 351A. The first intermediate portion 336A is hingedto the first end portion 332A/346A by a hinged connection such as astraight fold line 339A. Fold line 339A extends between an edge of firstaperture A1 and a first end of the fold line 331A. The fold line 339Aextends into the first side panel 314 to meet an end of the fold line331A disposed in the first side panel 314.

The second intermediate portion 338A interconnects the main portion 330Ato the second end portion 334A/348A. The second intermediate portion338A is hinged to the main portion 330A by a hinged connection such as afold line 353A. The second intermediate portion 238A is hinged to thesecond end portion 334A/348A by a hinged connection such as a fold line341A. Fold line 341A extends between a second end of the first curvedfold line 331A and an edge of second aperture A2. The fold line 341Aextends into the second side panel 318 to meet an end of the fold line331A disposed in the second side panel 318.

The first intermediate portion 236A and the second intermediate portion238A are each substantially trapezoidal in shape. The first intermediateportion 236A and the second intermediate portion 238A are each definedin part in the respective one of the first and second side panels314,318. The first intermediate portion 236A can be considered to extendinto the first side panel 314. The second intermediate portion 238A canbe considered to extend into the second side panel 318.

The first aperture A1 has the effect of reducing the maximum heightdimension of the first intermediate portion 336A to be less than themaximum height dimension of the main portion 330A and of the first endportion 332A/346A.

The second aperture A2 has the effect of reducing the maximum heightdimension of the second intermediate portion 338A to be less than themaximum height dimension of the main portion 330A and of the second endportion 334A/348A.

The handle structure H4 comprises a second, optional, handle flapdisposed on a second side of the weakened line of severance 344. Thesecond handle flap is hinged, in opposition to the first handle flap, tothe top panel 316 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 231B; tothe first side panel 314 by a hinged connection such as a fold line335B; and to the second side panel 318 by a hinged connection such as afold line 337B.

The second handle flap comprises a main portion 330B, a first endportion 332B/346B; a second end portion 334B/348B; a first intermediateportion 336B and a second intermediate portion 338B.

The main portion 230A of the first handle flap is separable from themain portion 330B of the second handle flap by severing the weakenedline of severance 344.

The handle structure H4 is configured for one-handed use. So that acarton (not shown) can be easily picked up without a user having tocorrectly orientate the carton (not shown) the overall handle structureH3 effectively comprises two carrying structures that are mirror imagesof one another.

It can be appreciated that various changes may be made within the scopeof the present invention. For example, the size and shape of the panelsand apertures may be adjusted to accommodate articles of differing sizeor shape. Whereas handle structures of the disclosure have beendescribed and illustrated when applied to a fully enclosed carton of theend loading type, in other applications and embodiments one or morehandle structures according to the disclosure may be applied to a cartonor carrier that is fully enclosed, partially enclosed, of the wraparoundtype and/or of the top gripping type.

It will be recognised that as used herein, directional references suchas “top”, “bottom”, “base”, “front”, “back”, “end”, “side”, “inner”,“outer”, “upper” and “lower” do not necessarily limit the respectivepanels to such orientation, but may merely serve to distinguish thesepanels from one another.

As used herein, the terms “hinged connection” and “fold line” eachrefers to all manner of lines that define hinge features of the blank,facilitate folding portions of the blank with respect to one another, orotherwise indicate optimal panel folding locations for the blank. A foldline is typically a scored line, an embossed line, or a debossed line.Any reference to “hinged connection” should not be construed asnecessarily referring to a single fold line only; indeed a hingedconnection can be formed from two or more fold lines without departingfrom the scope of the invention.

The term “fold line” as used herein refers to any line that defines ahinge line in a foldable sheet material, such as paperboard, forfacilitating folding of portions of a blank of sheet material withrespect to one another, or otherwise indicating optimal panel foldinglocations on the blank. A fold line may be formed by a single score, asingle half cut, a line of perforations, a line of cuts, a line of shortslits, a line of half cuts, a line of scores, any combination thereof,or the like.

As used herein, the term “weakened line of severance” refers to allmanner of lines that facilitate separating portions of the substratefrom one another or that indicate optimal separation locations. Aweakened line of severance may be formed by a single cut, a single halfcut, a line of perforations, a line of cuts, a line of short slits, aline of half cuts, any combination thereof, or the like.

It should be understood that hinged connections, weakened lines ofseverance and fold lines can each include elements that are formed inthe substrate of the blank including perforations, a line ofperforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a singlehalf-cut, a cut line, an interrupted cut line, slits, scores, anycombination thereof, and the like. The elements can be dimensioned andarranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, a line ofperforations can be dimensioned or designed with degrees of weakness todefine a fold line and/or a weakened line of severance. The line ofperforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breakingto provide a fold line, to facilitate folding and facilitate breakingwith more effort to provide a weakened fold line, or to facilitatebreaking with little effort to provide a weakened line of severance.

The phrase “in registry with” as used herein refers to alignment of twoor more elements in an erected carton, such as an aperture formed in afirst of two overlapping panels and a second aperture formed in a secondof two overlapping panels. Those elements in registry with each othermay be aligned with each other in the direction of the thickness of theoverlapping panels. For example, when an aperture in a first panel is“in registry with” a second aperture in a second panel that is placed inan overlapping arrangement with the first panel, an edge of the aperturemay extend along at least a portion of an edge of the second apertureand may be aligned, in the direction of the thickness of the first andsecond panels, with the second aperture.

As used herein the term “cutaway” refers to all manner of recesses,apertures, cuts, slots, holes and gaps which may be circular,rectangular, capsule shaped, irregular shaped and many other shapes thatare pre-formed or pre-defined. A “cutaway” may have a temporary coverthereon which temporary cover is frangibly connected to the carton orblank, optionally by a perforate line, nick connection or other weakenedline of severance.

1. A carton comprising: a top wall, a first side wall hingedly connectedto the top wall, and a handle structure formed in the top wall and inthe first side wall, the handle structure comprising: a first handleflap hinged to the top wall and to the first side wall by a first hingedconnection, the first handle flap comprising: a first end portion formedat least in part in the first side wall; a first intermediate portion;and a first main portion formed from part of the top wall and beinghingedly connected to the first end portion by the first intermediateportion; and a first cutaway struck at least in part from the firsthandle flap and disposed adjacent to the first intermediate portion. 2.A carton according to claim 1 wherein the first end portion is formed inpart in the top wall.
 3. (canceled)
 4. (canceled)
 5. A carton accordingto claim 1 wherein the first cutaway is struck at least in part from thetop wall.
 6. A carton according to claim 5 wherein the first cutaway isstruck at least in part from the first side wall.
 7. (canceled) 8.(canceled)
 9. A carton according to claim 1 wherein the carton furthercomprises a second side wall connected to an opposite edge of the topwall and wherein the first handle flap comprises: a second end portionformed at least in part in the second side wall; and a secondintermediate portion; the first main portion being hingedly connected tothe second end portion by the second intermediate portion; the handlestructure further comprising a second cutaway struck at least in partfrom the first handle flap and disposed adjacent to the secondintermediate portion.
 10. A carton according to claim 9 wherein thehandle structure comprises a third cutaway that is struck, at least inpart, from the first main portion and that couples the first cutaway tothe second cutaway.
 11. (canceled)
 12. A carton according to claim 1wherein the first cutaway extends from a free edge of the first handleflap toward the first hinged connection.
 13. A carton according to claim1 comprising at least one article disposed therein, and wherein thefirst end portion engages with a portion of a first end of the at leastone article when the handle structure is deployed.
 14. (canceled)
 15. Acarton according to claim 1 wherein the handle structure includes asecond handle flap hinged by a second hinged connection to the top walland to the first side wall in opposition to the first handle flap, thesecond handle flap comprising: a third end portion formed at least inpart in the first side wall; a third intermediate portion; a second mainportion formed from part of the top wall and being hingedly connected tothe third end portion by the third intermediate portion; a fourth endportion formed at least in part in the second side wall; and a fourthintermediate portion; the second main portion being hingedly connectedto the fourth end portion by the fourth intermediate portion; the handlestructure further comprising: a third cutaway struck at least in partfrom the second handle flap and disposed adjacent to the thirdintermediate portion; and a fourth cutaway struck at least in part fromthe second handle flap and disposed adjacent to the fourth intermediateportion.
 16. A carton according to claim 15 wherein the first and thirdcutaway form a first aperture defined in the top wall; and wherein thesecond and fourth cutaway form a second aperture defined in the topwall.
 17. (canceled)
 18. A carton according to claim 16 wherein the topwall further comprises a feature selected from the group comprising: aslot, a weakened line of separation, a frangible line and a cut line,which feature couples the first aperture to the second aperture.
 19. Acarton according to claim 18 wherein the feature that couples the firstaperture to the second aperture extends into the first and/or secondside walls and alongside the first and/or second end portions.
 20. Acarton according to claim 1 wherein the first handle flap is hinged tothe top wall by a first curved fold line.
 21. A carton according toclaim 20 wherein the first handle flap is hinged to the top wall by asecond curved fold line wherein the second curved fold line is curved inopposition to the first curved fold line, the first and second curvedfolds lines being in touching contact at portions thereof and divergingfrom each other at first ends thereof.
 22. A carton according to claim21 wherein the first intermediate portion is defined, at least in partby a portion of the top wall disposed between the first and secondcurved fold lines.
 23. (canceled)
 24. (canceled)
 25. A carton accordingto claim 1 wherein the first main portion comprises a fold lineextending thereacross, from the first hinged connection to an opposingedge thereof, so as to define in part a web panel disposed adjacent tothe first intermediate portion.
 26. A carton according to claim 1wherein the first intermediate portion is triangular, three-sided and/ortrapezoidal in shape.
 27. (canceled)
 28. A carton according to claim 1comprising a plurality of walls forming a tubular structure including atop wall, first side wall, second side wall and a base wall.
 29. Ahandle structure for a carton, the handle structure being formed in afirst wall and in a second wall hingedly connected thereto, the handlestructure including: a first handle flap hinged to the first wall and tothe second wall by a hinged connection; the handle flap comprising: amain portion formed from a part of the first wall; and a first endportion formed at least in part from a part of the second wall; the mainportion being hingedly connected to the first end portion by anintermediate portion; a recess struck at least in part from the firsthandle flap and disposed adjacent to the first intermediate portion. 30.A blank comprising a plurality of panels for forming a carton, theplurality of panels comprising: a top panel and a first side panel; theblank comprising a handle structure formed in the top panel and in thefirst side panel, the handle structure including a handle flap hinged tothe top panel and the first side panel by a first hinged connection; thehandle flap comprising: a first end portion formed at least in part fromthe first side panel; a first intermediate portion; and a first mainportion formed from a part of the top panel and being hingedly connectedto the first end portion by the first intermediate portion; the handlestructure comprising a first cutaway struck at least in part from thehandle flap and disposed adjacent to the first intermediate portion. 31.(canceled)
 32. (canceled)
 33. (canceled)